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WHILE Kurt Tippett finally got to his new home of choice, Sydney, another Queenslander was yesterday more than happy to be staying in his own backyard.

Although the highest-rated footballer from the Sunshine State in last month's National Draft - and expected to be heading to a Melbourne-based club - Andrew Boston was completely overlooked.

The 18-year-old from Broadbeach was however snapped up yesterday by Gold Coast in the rookie draft (No.55 overall) after the club had taken Victorian Leigh Osborne (No.2) with its first and only other selection.

"It was definitely disappointing," the young midfielder said of last month's setback.

"But, I tried not to get too down ... and looked to the rookie draft and pre-season draft."

Already a graduate of the Suns Talent Academy, Boston was invited to train with the club two weeks ago.

He said, "I've just been working hard trying to put my best foot forward".

Taken a pick after Boston yesterday was his Queensland U18 teammate Jordon Bourke, who joined South Australian Nick Hayes (No.6 overall) in being added to the Brisbane Lions' rookie list.

The son of former Geelong and Bears ruckman Damian, Bourke is described by Lions list manager Robb Kerr as a "leading forward whose marking is his strength".

Redland's Adam Oxley, 20, was somewhat of a surprise selection at No.35 by Collingwood, while fellow Queenslander Ricky Petterd was taken at No.7 by Richmond after being axed by Melbourne.

Earlier, as expected, months of speculation ended when controversial ex-Adelaide forward Tippett was picked up at No.11 in the pre-season draft by the Swans.

The 25-year-old is unable to play until round 13 when he will have served his 11-match suspension for his involvement in the Crows' salary cap breach.

Delisted Carlton defender Brett Thornton was the first player taken in the pre-season draft, given a lifeline by the GWS Giants.